Only take Pepto-Bismol when you need it. You can take it for occasional heartburn, indigestion, diarrhoea or feeling sick (nausea).
If your symptoms have not improved within 2 days, speak to your doctor.
Important
Do not take Pepto-Bismol for more than 2 days.
Dosage
A single dose of Pepto-Bismol is either:
- 30ml of liquid
- 2 tablets
If you need to, repeat this dose every 30 to 60 minutes. Do not take more than 8 doses in 24 hours.
How to take it
You can take Pepto-Bismol with or without food.
Chew the tablets or let them dissolve on your tongue.
If you're taking the liquid, shake the bottle, then use the measuring cup that comes with the medicine to make sure you get the right amount. If you do not have a cup, ask your pharmacist for one. Do not use any other cup as it will not measure the right amount.
If you're taking Pepto-Bismol for diarrhoea, make sure you drink plenty of fluids to avoid dehydration.
How long to take it for
You can take Pepto-Bismol for up to 2 days. Do not take it for more than 2 days as this will increase your risk of getting side effects.
If your symptoms are no better or are getting worse after 2 days, contact your doctor.
Urgent advice: Contact 111 for advice now if:
- you have severe diarrhoea and a high temperature or stomach pain
- you have blood or mucus in your poo
Go to 111.nhs.uk or call 111
If you take too much
Taking too much Pepto-Bismol can increase the risk of side effects, including feeling or being sick, feeling confused, dizzy or tired, deafness, or ringing or buzzing in your ears.
Urgent advice: Contact 111 for advice now if:
- you take more than the recommended dose of Pepto-Bismol
Go to 111.nhs.uk or call 111
If you need to go to A&E, do not drive. Ask someone to drive you or call 999 and ask for an ambulance.
Bring the Pepto-Bismol packet or leaflet inside it, any remaining medicine, and any other medicines you take.